In this episode, we're joined by Kaleth Wright, the 18th Chief Master Sergeant of the US Air Force, who shares his remarkable journey from joining the military on a whim to reaching the highest enlisted rank. In this conversation, Kaleth shares his journey and reflects on the unexpected opportunities that led him to the prestigious position of Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, detailing the unique interview process and the responsibilities of the role. He discusses the challenges faced by enlisted airmen today, including retention issues and the impact of generational differences in the military. He emphasizes the value of seeking diverse perspectives in mentorship and the importance of education in navigating career transitions, encouraging service members to understand their identity beyond the uniform.
Main Topics
00:00 Introduction to Kaleth Wright's Journey
02:51 Early Military Experience and Challenges
05:57 Education and Career Development
08:46 Mentorship and Its Importance
12:11 Aspiring for Leadership Roles
15:02 Breaking Barriers in Mentorship
18:01 Path to Becoming Chief Master Sergeant
20:58 Unexpected Opportunities and Recognition
25:14 The Unexpected Interview Invitation
30:30 Understanding the Role of Chief Master Sergeant
36:04 Challenges Facing Enlisted Airmen Today
39:49 Bridging the Generational Gap in the Military
43:43 Navigating the Transition from Military to Civilian Life
Additional Resources
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